Backcountry Skiing San Juan Mountains: 8-Hour Guided Tour

Ski untouched terrain with guides who teach as you go

Mountain Trip's guided backcountry skiing in the San Juan Mountains pairs eight hours of personalized instruction with access to powder-filled glades, alpine bowls and steep descents near Red Mountain Pass. AMGA certified guides tailor the route to your ability, teach avalanche safety and backcountry technique throughout the day, and provide all avalanche safety equipment. Trips run year-round for skiers at any level.

The experience

Eight hours in the backcountry means real time to move through terrain and learn. Your guide customizes the day to your skill level, whether you're stepping into backcountry skiing for the first time or you've logged seasons in the mountains. The route changes based on snow conditions, your pace and what you want to work on: powder technique in the glades, line choice on steeper pitches, reading the alpine bowl for safe descents. Instruction happens as you ski, not in a classroom before you start.

The San Juan Mountains near Red Mountain Pass hold the terrain Mountain Trip has worked since 1973. Powder-filled glades let you practice in forgiving snow; alpine bowls open up the bigger picture of how to move across open terrain; steep descents demand precision but reward it. Your guide carries the avalanche beacon, shovel and probe, and you carry your own as part of the day's safety protocol. The guide handles route-finding and terrain assessment so you can focus on skiing and absorbing what they teach.

Pickup is included, which matters if you're staying in town without a car. The day runs eight hours, which gives you time to reach the terrain, ski multiple runs and return before dark. You'll need your own skis, boots, skins and poles. The operator provides only the avalanche safety equipment. Bring layers and lunch. The guide does not provide either, and the mountains demand both.

What’s included

• Avalanche safety equipment (beacon, shovel, probe).
• live guide in English.
• hotel or lodging pickup.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:00Last departure this season: 31 Oct

Book up to2d before

AgesAdult (8 to 80 years) · Under 8: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 15 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 9 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Mountain Trip

Is this one for you?Pickup from your lodging means you don't need a rental car or a ride to the trailhead, so the day works whether you're staying in town or at a mountain cabin. The eight-hour format fits a full day of skiing and instruction without rushing the descent or cutting the learning short.

Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the difference between backcountry skiing and resort skiing?

Backcountry skiing means climbing uphill under your own power using skins on your skis, then descending ungroomed terrain. Resort skiing uses lifts and groomed runs. Backcountry demands more fitness and technique, but it reaches snow and terrain lifts never touch.

Do I need backcountry skiing experience to book this?

No. Mountain Trip customizes each day to your ability, and first-time backcountry skiers are welcome. Your guide teaches technique and safety throughout the eight hours, so you learn as you go.

What happens if avalanche conditions are unsafe that day?

Your guide assesses conditions each morning and chooses terrain accordingly. If conditions are unsafe for backcountry travel, the guide will either adjust the route to lower-angle terrain or reschedule the trip: safety is the first call.

What does the avalanche gear do, and do I need to know how to use it before I arrive?

The beacon, shovel and probe are emergency rescue tools. Your guide teaches you how to use them as part of the day's instruction, so you don't need prior knowledge. The guide carries the equipment and demonstrates proper technique.

How do I get to the meeting point if I'm staying in Ouray without a car?

Pickup is included in the booking. Confirm your hotel or lodging address when you reserve, and the guide will collect you before the day starts.